Rebecca Ellen Grimes, 72, of Taylorville, IL, passed away at her residence on Thursday, March 5, 2026. She was born on September 24, 1953, in Decatur, IL, the daughter of Raymond Earnest and Velma Marie (Cecil) Ray. She married John Grimes and they later divorced.
Rebecca graduated from Assumption High School and furthered her education with one year of trade school. She resided in O’Fallon, MO, for 24 years before returning to Taylorville. She was strong in her faith and attended Calvary Baptist Church in Taylorville. Rebecca worked as a customer service representative for Magellan Behavioral Health where she dedicated 20 years helping her customers navigate the mental health insurance system. She enjoyed her job and took pride in assisting her customers. Rebecca enjoyed the beach and considered it her happy place. Above all, Rebecca loved her family with all her heart. She was a devoted mom and proud grandmother affectionately known as “MeMe” to all of her grandchildren. She is missed dearly by all who knew her.
She is survived by her children: Tara Clawson (Jonathan) of Taylorville, IL; Raymond Lawyer (Haley Burton) of Germantown Hills, IL; grandchildren: Valerie Donnan (Benjiman) of Springfield, IL; Timothy Lawyer (Callie Brown) of Germantown Hills, IL; Meghan Donnan of Charleston, IL; John Carter Donnan of Taylorville, IL; Ryan Lawyer (Tabitha) of Sullivan, IL; Victoria Clawson of Raleigh, NC; Paul Clawson of Lackland Air Force Base, TX; Blake Swanson of Germantown Hills, IL; Penelope Burton of Germantown Hills, IL; honorary granddaughter: Amber Provines of Mattoon, IL; honorary great-grandson: Layton William Provines of Mattoon, IL; as well as her siblings: Phillip Ray (Rin) of Anna, IL; Delores Ray (Hank) of St. Peters, MO; and her beloved cat, Luna.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Raymond and Velma Ray, a grandson, Garret Anthony Donnan, and her sister, Evelyn McBride.
Per Rebecca’s wishes, cremation rites have been accorded, and her family will be hosting a memorial gathering Saturday, March 14, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM and thgen a celebration of life at 5:00 PM. at Calvary Baptist Church in Taylorville.
Memorials in her honor may be graciously made to St. Louis Children’s Hospital, to the Susan G. Komen Foundation, an Animal Shelter, or any organization of the Donor’s choice.
